DIY Homemade Percussion Caps: A Step-by-Step Guide

TLDRLearn how to make homemade percussion caps in this step-by-step guide and add another layer of self-sufficiency to your black powder shooting experience.

Key insights

🔫Handcrafting your own percussion caps can add to the self-sufficiency of black powder shooting enthusiasts.

⚙️A few essential tools and materials are required to make homemade percussion caps, including a cutting tool, scrap aluminum, toy caps, and a paper punch.

👨‍🔬Homemade percussion caps have a high rate of success, with an estimated 95% fire rate.

🎯Accuracy with homemade percussion caps can be comparable to commercial caps, as demonstrated by a three-inch group at 30 yards.

🟠Freshness is key to the effectiveness of homemade percussion caps, as older caps may lose their potency over time.

Q&A

What tools and materials are needed to make homemade percussion caps?

You will need a cutting tool, scrap aluminum, toy caps, and a paper punch.

How effective are homemade percussion caps?

On average, homemade percussion caps have a 95% fire rate and can offer accuracy comparable to commercial caps.

Can homemade percussion caps be used in various firearms?

Yes, homemade percussion caps can be used on rifles, muskets, and cap and ball revolvers with standard number 11 size nipples.

Do homemade percussion caps have a shelf life?

Homemade percussion caps are best used within a year or two to ensure consistent ignition.

Are homemade percussion caps a cost-effective option?

Making your own percussion caps can be cost-effective, especially when commercial caps are not readily available or affordable.

Timestamped Summary

00:00In this video, we learn how to make homemade percussion caps for black powder shooting.

02:00Tools and materials needed include a cutting tool, scrap aluminum, toy caps, and a paper punch.

04:14The process involves cutting out percussion cap shells from the scrap aluminum.

07:40The homemade percussion caps are tested on a .45 caliber Kentucky rifle with positive results.

10:24Accuracy is demonstrated with a three-inch group at 30 yards.

12:00The shelf life of homemade percussion caps is discussed, emphasizing the importance of using fresh caps for consistent ignition.